How is the quality of your sleep each evening? Recent studies have shown that it takes longer for the brain to calm down and fall asleep if one is watching television or using a screened device for up to two hours before going to bed. Dr. Louise Foley at the University of Auckland, New Zealand initiated a long term study suggesting that reducing screen time before bed is a positive strategy to help children fall asleep and receive sufficient amounts of sleep. Engaging in any sort of screen time causes brain arousal making it difficult for the brain to calm down. The blue light from screens influences circadian rhythms which affects falling asleep. For children, sleep is one of the most important aspects of growth and development as it assists in the emotional, mental and physical growth. An accumulation of sleepless hours can add up to detrimental consequences in behavior patterns, increased aggression or hyperactivity. When the entire family commits to eliminating screen time during the calming down hours of the evening, everyone is able to have a better sleep. To keep up to date with information and resources, like us on our Digital Citizenship Facebook Page.